Needle selection can depend on a lot of things. I typically use a 10 Universal needle for piecing, I use a small stitch length. I will also use 12s for piecing but usually as a 2nd choice. Depending on the weave of the fabric, it might be first choice. I'm currently doing a test using So Fine thread, it's working out ok for me for piecing. I typically buy the Schmetz 3 packs with 10-12-14 needles.
When I'm piecing/quilting batiks or some other tightly woven fabrics, I really like those Microtex needles!
When I start quilting down again, I'll be doing some more tests with needle types. I usually use a 14+ on my domestic machine. My last top I used Jeans needle, didn't really notice any difference between it and universal.